(May 2, 2010 at 6:41 pm)XEN0 Wrote: I am currently a student attending a high school on the coast of California and have been thinking of starting an atheist/freethinker club at my school. I'm not anticipating any legitimate opposition to me actually trying to begin a club, but I am quite at a loss when it comes to what kind of activities a high school atheism club would participate in. One idea I have is creating a type of archived Q&A website for theists (or other atheists) at the school in order to both promote an awareness for what atheism is/is not and educate students in regards to the fallacies of mainstream religion.
...but in case this idea fails to gather momentum and attention, does anyone else have ideas for what a freethinker club at a high school can do?
Great idea,should be one at every public high school.I doubt there are any legal obstacles,but make yourself aware of your rights,and where to go if you have problems.
You asked, so below are a bunch of suggestions which might help your idea be more effective. Or not.
On your website perhaps start with basics, stating clearly what the words 'atheist' 'skeptic' and 'free thinker' mean and do not mean. Clearly and briefly state the aims of your site.
Perhaps help your members arm themselves with reason by having a section explaining the more common logical fallacies used by apologists EG:
Ad hominem (attacking the person rather than the argument.
Argument from ignorance ("I'm too ignorant, stupid,unimaginative or plain bloody minded to think of anything else,therefore God did it")
Argument from authority (it's true because the bible says )
Argument by consensus. ( a lot of people believe it therefore it's true)
No true Scotsman (those people who did those horrible things are not true Christians)
Keep in mind your target group is made of ordinary people who have the same broad interests and problems as anyone else.
Have information on a range of topics: such as:
Dealing with a religious family,'coming out' as an atheist ,as gay or a different political persuasion your parents.
Studies:From tips on passing exams to information on college entrance.
Dealing with depression,addictions and eating disorders, including where to get help.Teen suicide is a serious issue. Also deal with bullying,especially cyber bullying ( email, texting)
Information on sexual matters such as contraception (different choices and where to get stuff) Information on STDs ,including where to go for diagnosis and treatment as well as accurate information of the effects of untreated STDs.
Non judgmental information about all choices for a pregnant female,and where to get help. Whatever the choice,perhaps emphasis the choice is hers alone.
Sounds like a lot off work,a lot of fun,and probably a lot of personal satisfaction. I wish you well.
